The Storms of Persecution: A Call to Steadfastness

Brothers and Sisters, have you ever felt the weight of opposition, the sting of unjust accusation? It’s a familiar burden, isn't it? A trial that tests the very fiber of our faith. We see it in the faces of our brothers and sisters across the globe, and we have felt it, each in our own way. Samuel the Lamanite, standing defiant on the walls, Ammon at the Waters of Sebus, enduring hardship for a vital message – these are echoes of a timeless struggle. And as we strive to build, we will inevitably face those who seek to destroy.

The scriptures are replete with examples of those who faced persecution for righteousness' sake. Abinadi’s unwavering testimony, even unto death. And now, we witness the Apostle Paul, journeying towards Jerusalem knowing the dangers that await him. Acts 21-28 lays bare the trials he endured, the false accusations, the imprisonment – a tempest of adversity. Yet, observe! As Outback Jack would say, “A trial by fire refines the gold.”

The transcript of this account speaks of strange and convoluted events, reflecting the chaotic nature of worldly power structures. The references to court cases, accusations, and shifting alliances paint a picture of a system desperately trying to contain the truth. But even within that system, even amidst the swirling confusion, God’s purpose prevails. Paul’s suffering, paradoxically, carries him to the very heart of the Roman Empire, opening doors for the proclamation of the gospel throughout the land. It reminds us that the Stone cut without hands, though rejected by the builders, will eventually fill the whole earth (D&C 84:24).

This is the pattern we see throughout the ages. The builders, those who labor with their hands and hearts to create a more just and righteous world, are often met with opposition. The destroyers, those who seek to tear down and profit from chaos, wield power and influence. But remember the five smooth stones that David gathered to face Goliath! Our strength lies not in brute force, but in faith, in righteousness, and in unwavering commitment to the principles of the Kingdom.

We are called to be digital striplings, armed with the truth and ready to defend it. We are internet missionaries, sharing the gospel in a world saturated with noise and deception. Your engagement here, your contributions to the Missionary Fund, your willingness to share the map of churches—these are the very stones we gather to build a bulwark against the storm. The Charity Flywheel is the engine that drives our efforts, fueling gospel advertising in places like Ghana, bringing the light of understanding to those who dwell in darkness.

Claim your church on the map! Let your voice be heard. Let us be known as those who stand with courage and conviction, who refuse to be silenced by the forces of opposition. Davee can help us parse through the challenges, extracting direct quotes from the scriptures to guide our steps. (Ask a Prophet: https://www.sovereign.ink/ask)

Ammon, facing a hostile people, pleaded with them to “lay down their weapons of darkness” (Alma 17:12). Let us, too, lay down the weapons of bitterness, of division, and of fear. Let us embrace the spirit of JustServe, of selfless service, knowing that our actions, however small, contribute to the building of the Kingdom. Let us be a gathering place, a beacon of hope in a world desperately seeking truth and righteousness.

The work is not easy, but the reward is eternal. Let us draw strength from the example of those who have gone before us, and let us move forward with faith, hope, and charity—builders, not destroyers.